A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dubai vs. Bonn for Nightlife, Families, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Dubai or Bonn?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dubai and Bonn can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dubai

Dubai is a modern, glamorous, and opulent city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, live music, and food.

Bonn

Bonn is a outdoorsy, lively, and cultural city. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Dubai and Bonn: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dubai or Bonn?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dubai than Bonn. Dubai is bigger than Bonn, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dubai is better known for its skiing, food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Bonn is more popular for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Dubai is more touristy than Bonn and is known for its luxury shopping, glamorous resorts, city beaches, and ultramodern development style. Also, Dubai is famous for Burj Khalifa. Bonn is well known for its many museums, cultural venues, and university atmosphere, as well as being the birthplace of Beethoven.

Burj Khalifa

How is Dubai different from Bonn?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bonn and Dubai. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Skiing?

Dubai is adequate for skiing. However, Bonn is not a skiing destination.

Locals like to visit Dubai to take advantage of their winter sports. Despite being a desert city, Dubai became famous for its massive indoor ski complex that covers 22,500 square meters. It is located in the Mall of the Emirates.

Bonn is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dubai or Bonn?

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Bonn and Dubai.

Many visitors head to Dubai specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most famous landmark is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. Head to the observation deck for stunning views.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bonn can be an interesting and educational experience. Some of the most popular museums include Haus der Geschichte (history), Beethoven's House, and Kunstmuseum Bonn (art). For architecture check out the Old Town Hall and Bonn Minster. Other landmarks include Poppelsdorf Palace and Schloss Drachenburg.

Is the Food Better in Dubai or Bonn? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dubai is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Dubai. The national dish in the area is khuzi, or ghuzi, which is a meal of roasted lamb or mutton, prepared with rice vegetables and nuts.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Bonn. Like much of the food in Germany, you'll find local dishes are hearty and filling. Potatoes and meats are popular ingredients, as are milk, butter, and vegetables. For local flavors try the Rhenish Sauerbraten (veal stew), Reibekuchen (German pancakes), or Christmas Sausages.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Nightlife?

Dubai is very popular for nightlife. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Dubai is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. Frequented by the wealthy and opulent, the city has world class night clubs and DJs that travel from around to world to perform.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bonn. There are bars and nightclubs around town but even more popular are the cultural events that the city hosts. If nightlife is important to you, try to visit during one of the festivals around town.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Music?

Dubai is very popular for live music. However, Bonn is not a live music destination.

Dubai is known as a music capital around the world. The city attracts world famous international DJs and musicians giving it one of the world's best music scenes.

Bonn is not a live music destination.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Resorts?

Dubai is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Bonn is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Dubai is a great choice. Some of the most famous include Atlantis - The Palm, The Four Seasons, and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Bonn is not a resort destination.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Dubai is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Dubai has a few good snorkeling spots. One of the best scuba diving spots is Jumeirah Beach.

Bonn is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Beaches?

Dubai is a popular place for its beaches. However, Bonn is not a beach destination.

Dubai is a good option for a beach vacation. There are a number of both private and public beaches in the city. They are almost all man-made, so they are large, flat, and have soft sand. It's also generally safe to swim at most beaches.

Bonn is not a beach destination.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for its Old Town?

Bonn is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Dubai does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bonn. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming shops. There are also cafes and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Dubai does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Dubai or Bonn?

Dubai is very popular for shopping. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Dubai. With its many malls, souks, and shopping areas, this is the place to go for luxury shopping. Popular items to purchase include gold and diamond jewelry, shawls, and Persian rugs.

Bonn is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A mix of local shops and major chains make shopping fun and easy. Whether you're interested in souvenir gifts or a new outfit, there are countless stores around town.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Families?

Bonn is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Bonn is one of the most popular family destinations. Just outside of the town is the Haribo factory outlet store where you can pick up a number of sweet treats and spend some time exploring with the kids. Another favorite activity for the whole family is a trip to nearby Phantasialand. This is one of the best amusement parks in Germany and it has many rides for teens and younger kids alike. In town, you'll find playgrounds and kid-friendly museums. Kids will also love a visit to Schloss Drachenburg Castle.

Dubai is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city has family-friendly resorts, skyscrapers with spectacular views, and amusement parks that are fun for the whole family. There are also plenty of fountains that the kids can splash around in.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Couples?

Both Dubai and Bonn are notable destinations to visit as a couple.

Dubai is a good city for couples to visit. From the spectacular views to the high end resorts, couples can enjoy a romantic retreat to the city.

Bonn is a nice destination for couples. Churches, architecture, and botanical gardens all make this a great couples destination. You can take a cruise down the Rhein or enjoy a meal at one of the best restaurants.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bonn is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Dubai is not known for backpackers.

Bonn is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers skip this town, so its a good option for travelers who want to get off the beaten backpacker trail. There are affordable hotels and hostels around town as well as restaurants where you can pick up something cheap to eat.

Dubai is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It is known to be an expensive and not so backpacker friendly city, but there are some hostels around that you can stay at.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Students?

Dubai is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bonn is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Many students frequent Dubai. Many major universities from around the world have campuses in this city, making this a top destination for international students.

Bonn is very popular with students. The city has a very international vibe and you'll likely run into people speaking English around town. Job opportunities in the area are good and there are schools that attract students from around the globe.

Is Dubai or Bonn Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bonn is a great city for times when you don't have a car. Also, Dubai is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Bonn offers a very effecient public transportation network. There is a light rail system that includes 9 lines and 64 stations. There are also buses around town. Bonn is connected to the region by convenient commuter trains so it's possible to visit as a day trip.

Dubai has a few public transit options. The city's public transportation system includes buses, water buses, a monorail system, and a metro.

Is Dubai or Bonn a more walkable city?

Bonn is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Dubai is not known for its walkability.

Bonn is a very walkable destination. The compact old town is easy to explore on foot.

Dubai is generally not very walkable. It is one of the less pedestrian-friendly cities around the world. There is lots of road work, even in the more walkable areas, so getting around on foot can be challenging.

For even more information, also check out Is Dubai Worth Visiting? and Is Bonn Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bonn or Dubai?

How long in Dubai or Bonn?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Dubai and Bonn. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Dubai than in Bonn. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Dubai, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bonn.

Families should spend more time in Bonn than Dubai. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bonn, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Dubai than Bonn. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dubai that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dubai than Bonn if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Dubai.

One day in Dubai or Bonn?

Dubai is a big city destination where you can fill many days. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Bonn, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Dubai or Bonn?

Dubai is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bonn. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dubai or Bonn?

Dubai is a glamorous big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Bonn is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bonn. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dubai or Bonn?

Dubai is a modern city where you can fill many days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Bonn. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubai, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Arab Emirates, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dubai and Bonn, we can see that Dubai is more expensive. And not only is Bonn much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Dubai is in Middle East and Bonn is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Bonn would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bonn and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dubai would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dubai than you might in Bonn.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Dubai Expensive? and Is Bonn Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dubai or Bonn?

Dubai has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Bonn. When comparing the sizes of Dubai and Bonn, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Dubai or Bonn?

Bonn has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Dubai experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Bonn in the Summer?

Both Bonn and Dubai are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Dubai throughout the year. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Bonn because of the family-friendly experiences.

The heat can be very extreme in Dubai. In the summer, Dubai is much warmer than Bonn. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dubai in July average around 35°C (95°F), and Bonn averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In July, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bonn. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer. The dry season in Dubai is June to August.

Should I visit Dubai or Bonn in the Autumn?

Both Bonn and Dubai during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Dubai because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Bonn this time of year.

In October, Dubai is generally much warmer than Bonn. Daily temperatures in Dubai average around 29°C (84°F), and Bonn fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in October than Bonn. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dubai or Bonn in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Dubai and Bonn. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Dubai year-round. Also, many travelers come to Bonn for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bonn. Dubai is much warmer than Bonn in the winter. The daily temperature in Dubai averages around 19°C (66°F) in January, and Bonn fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In January, Dubai usually receives less rain than Bonn. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter. Also, January to March is the rainy season in Dubai.

Should I visit Dubai or Bonn in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Dubai as well as Bonn. Dubai attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In the spring, Dubai is much warmer than Bonn. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dubai in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Bonn averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Dubai usually gets less rain in April than Bonn. Dubai gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Bonn receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to August in Dubai is the dry season.

Typical Weather for Bonn and Dubai